In celebration of the 25th anniversary of BBC’s Pride and Prejudice, we’ve put together a list of must-watch couples on BritBox, including the beloved Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Don’t miss BritBox’s exclusive new trailer for the freshly remastered edition of Pride and Prejudice, now available as of September 25th.
Marking the milestone of the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, now remastered in 4K on BritBox, we delved into iconic British TV couples with a spotlight on Elizabeth and Darcy. The 1995 version with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle sparked the Austenmania of the ‘90s, leading to more Jane Austen adaptations, a surge in her popularity, and a revival of period dramas. This is a history worth celebrating!
For those who enjoy timeless romance or classic British drama and comedy, we’ve chosen seven iconic couples from memorable love stories on BritBox. If you haven’t seen these romantic films and series yet, now is the perfect time to explore BritBox.
ICONIC COUPLES ON BRITBOX
1. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet – Pride and Prejudice (1995)
BritBox Synopsis: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this award-winning adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless romance, now in 4K. The story revolves around the headstrong Elizabeth Bennett who challenges the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy.
Why They Are Iconic: Jane Austen’s story of Elizabeth and Darcy is nothing short of legendary. Colin Firth’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy, especially the iconic wet shirt scene, is unforgettable. The 1995 adaptation remains the gold standard for Austen adaptations— now, it’s even more stunning in 4K.
2. Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester – Jane Eyre (2006)
BritBox Synopsis: Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel comes alive in this vibrant and slightly steamy adaptation, starring Ruth Wilson in her TV debut as the “poor, obscure, plain, and little” heroine.
Why They Are Iconic: Gothic romance fans will love the tale of independent Jane and the brooding Rochester. This 2006 adaptation, starring Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens, is widely considered the best adaptation, influencing many gothic and paranormal romances that followed.
3. Emma and Mr. Knightley – Emma (2009)
BritBox Synopsis: Romola Garai stars as Jane Austen’s matchmaking heroine, Emma, who eventually learns she might not be as skilled as she thinks.
Why They Are Iconic: Another beloved Austen adaptation, this miniseries stars Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller as Emma and Mr. Knightley, exploring Austen’s iconic novel with ample time for depth and detail.
4. Beatrice and Benedick – Much Ado About Nothing (1984)
BritBox Synopsis: Shakespeare’s comedy about love, misunderstandings, and deception sees friends trying to bring the bickering Benedick and Beatrice together while a villain attempts to ruin another couple’s wedding.
Why They Are Iconic: This Shakespearean comedy is both humorous and romantic, with Beatrice and Benedick being the original rom-com couple. This adaptation is simply fantastic!
5. Lionel Hardcastle & Jean Pargetter – As Time Goes By (1992)
BritBox Synopsis: A classic romantic sitcom with Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer as two lovers who reunite after decades due to a past misunderstanding.
Why They Are Iconic: Featuring iconic actors, especially Dame Judi Dench, this sweet and cleverly written British series remains a timeless romantic comedy.
6. Yuri & Lara – Doctor Zhivago (2002)
BritBox Synopsis: During the Russian Revolution, Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, grapples with his love for two women. Starring Keira Knightley and Hans Matheson.
Why They Are Iconic: While not as famous as the 1965 film, this adaptation stays true to the story and boasts a star-studded British cast. It’s a heartfelt, epic love story you shouldn’t miss.
7: William Buxton & Peggy Bell – Return to Cranford (2009)
BritBox Synopsis: This series returns with new British talents, bringing fresh love interests and new social challenges to the town of Cranford.
Why They Are Iconic: Featuring stars like Tom Hiddleston and Jodi Whittaker, this period romance based on Elizabeth Gaskell’s novellas is beautifully crafted.
What’s your favorite iconic couple on BritBox? Are you planning to watch the remastered edition of Pride and Prejudice in 4K? Let me know in the comments below!
